This is how that prince who vouchsafeth oracles to others, that judge of what is right for all the world, hath revenged himself on Achilles’ son, remembering his ancient quarrel as a wicked man would. How then can he be wise? Exit Messenger. The body of Neoptolemus is carried in on a bier.

ChorusLo! E’en now our prince is being carried on a bier from Delphi’s land unto his home. Woe for him and his sad fate, and woe for thee, old sire! for this is not the welcome thou wouldst give Achilles’ son, the lion’s whelp; thyself too ~~by this sad mischanceκύρσας is probably corrupt. Nauck omits it, and marks a lacuna.~~ dost share his evil lot.

PeleusAh! woe is me! here is a sad sight for me to see and take unto my halls!